An infrared (ir) imaging system for determining a concentration of a target species in an object is disclosed. The imaging system can include an optical system including a focal plane array (FPA) unit behind an optical window. The optical system can have components defining at least two optical channels thereof, said at least two optical channels being spatially and spectrally different from one another. Each of the at least two optical channels can be positioned to transfer ir radiation incident on the optical system towards the optical FPA. The system can include a processing unit containing a processor that can be configured to acquire multispectral optical data representing said target species from the ir radiation received at the optical FPA. One or more of the optical channels may be used in detecting objects on or near the optical window, to avoid false detections of said target species.
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10. An infrared (ir) imaging system comprising:
a housing;
an optical window disposed on the housing;
an optical detector system disposed within the housing;
a plurality of spatially and spectrally distinct optical channels that transfer incident ir radiation from the optical window to the optical detector system, wherein said ir imaging system is configured to detect whether the optical window is obscured; and
processing circuitry configured to:
analyze a first image and a second image, received from respective first and second optical channels of the plurality of spatially and spectrally distinct optical channels, to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the ir imaging system,
create first and second gradient images from the first and second images, respectively,
cross-correlate the first and second gradient images, and
determine that at least one cross-correlation between the first and second gradient images exceeds a first window obscuration threshold and that the first and second gradient images exceed a second window obscuration threshold and, in response, providing an alert that the optical window is obscured.
1. A method of detecting obscuration of an optical window in an ir imaging system, the ir imaging system comprising processing circuitry and a plurality of spatially and spectrally distinct optical channels, each optical channel including a set of lenses that focus incident ir light on a respective portion of an optical detector system, the method comprising:
with the processing circuitry, analyzing a first image and a second image, received from respective first and second optical channels of the plurality of spatially and spectrally distinct optical channels, to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the ir imaging system;
with the processing circuitry, creating first and second gradient images from the first and second images, respectively;
with the processing circuitry, cross-correlating the first and second gradient images; and
with the processing circuitry, determining that at least one cross-correlation between the first and second gradient images exceeds a first window obscuration threshold and that the first and second gradient images exceed a second window obscuration threshold and, in response, providing an alert that the optical window is obscured.
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This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/185,399, filed Nov. 9, 2018, entitled “WINDOW OBSCURATION SENSORS FOR MOBILE GAS AND CHEMICAL IMAGING CAMERAS”, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/584,076, filed Nov. 9, 2017, entitled “WINDOW OBSCURATION SENSORS FOR MOBILE GAS AND CHEMICAL IMAGING CAMERAS;” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/584,684, filed Nov. 10, 2017, entitled “WINDOW OBSCURATION SENSORS FOR MOBILE GAS AND CHEMICAL IMAGING CAMERAS;” the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety and for all purposes.
Funding for some portions of the technology disclosed in this application was provided by the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) under Contract Number DE-AR0000541. The government may have certain rights in these portions of the technology.
The present invention generally relates to a system and method for gas cloud detection and, in particular, to a system and method of detecting obscuration of a camera window in gas and chemical imaging cameras.
Spectral imaging systems and methods have applications in a variety of fields. Spectral imaging systems and methods obtain a spectral image of a scene in one or more regions of the electromagnetic spectrum to detect phenomena, identify material compositions or characterize processes. The spectral image of the scene can be represented as a three-dimensional data cube where two axes of the cube represent two spatial dimensions of the scene and a third axis of the data cube represents spectral information of the scene in different wavelength regions. The data cube can be processed using mathematical methods to obtain information about the scene. Some of the existing spectral imaging systems generate the data cube by scanning the scene in the spatial domain (e.g., by moving a slit across the horizontal dimensions of the scene) and/or spectral domain (e.g., by scanning a wavelength dispersive element to obtain images of the scene in different spectral regions). Such scanning approaches acquire only a portion of the full data cube at a time. These portions of the full data cube are stored and then later processed to generate a full data cube.
The systems, methods and devices of this disclosure each have several innovative aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for the desirable attributes disclosed herein.
Various examples of imaging systems comprising an optical window and with capabilities to determine if the optical window is obscured (e.g., to detect objects on or in front of the window that may introduce obscuration that may degrade operation of the system) are described herein such as the examples enumerated below:
An example of an infrared (IR) imaging system comprising:
The IR imaging system of Example 1, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 2, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 30 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 30 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 5 meters greater than the focus distance of the first optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 10 meters greater than the focus distance of the first optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 20 meters greater than the focus distance of the first optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance of 1 meter or less.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance of 2 meter or less.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the first optical channel and the other optical channels include imaging lenses for imaging objects onto the optical detector system, said imaging lenses having focal lengths.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the first optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the first optical channel by at least 2×.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the first optical channel by at least 5×.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the first optical channel is in focus at the optical window to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the first optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the first optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 1 meter beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 18, wherein the first optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the first optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 50 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 19, wherein the first optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the first optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 20 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 20, wherein the first optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the first optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 10 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 21, further comprising:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate how much of the image data is in focus to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate the contrast of the image data to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 24, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge enhancement of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 25, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge detection of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 26, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform normalization of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 27, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises scaling the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 28, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises subtracting from the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 29, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate whether image data exceeds a threshold to determine whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 30, wherein a second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance that is closer to the optical window than at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of Example 31, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 32, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 33, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 30 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 34, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 35, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 36, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 30 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 37, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 5 meters greater than the focus distance of the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 38, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 10 meters greater than the focus distance of the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 39, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 20 meters greater than the focus distance of the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 40, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance of 1 meter or less.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 41, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance of 2 meter or less.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 42, wherein the second optical channel and the other optical channels include imaging lenses for imaging objects onto the optical detector system, said imaging lenses having focal lengths.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 43, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 44, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the second optical channel by at least 2×.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 45, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the second optical channel by at least 5×.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 46, wherein a second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels is in focus at the optical window to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 47, wherein the second optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the second optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 1 meter beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 48, wherein the second optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the second optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 50 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 49, wherein the second optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the second optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 20 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 50, wherein the second optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the second optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 10 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 51, wherein the processing unit is configured to process image data from the second optical channel to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 52, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate how much of the image data from the second optical channel is in focus to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 53, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate the contrast of the image data from the second optical channel to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 54, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge enhancement of the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 55, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge detection of the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 56, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform normalization of the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 57, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises scaling the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 58, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises subtracting from the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 59, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate whether image data from the second optical channel exceeds a threshold to determine whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 60, wherein a plurality of the optical channels are in focus at optical infinity to detect a target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 61, wherein a plurality of the optical channels are in focus at a distance of at least 10 meters to detect a target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 62, wherein a plurality of the optical channels are in focus at a distance of at least 20 meters to detect a target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 63, wherein the processing unit is further configured to process image data from the plurality of optical channels to detect the target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 64, wherein the optical detector system comprises a plurality of optical detectors, each of which is associated with a respective one of the optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 65, wherein the optical detector system comprises at least one optical detector having a plurality of regions, each of the regions being associated with a respective one of the optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 66, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 67, wherein the processing unit is configured to:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 68, wherein comparing the first and second images comprises comparing the first and second images and using differences between the first and second images caused by parallax to determine whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 69, wherein comparing the first and second images comprises performing a correlation of the first and second images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 70, wherein the first and second optical channels are spatially distinct in a given direction and wherein processing unit is configured to:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 71, wherein the processing unit is configured to enhance edges in the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 72, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply an unsharp mask to the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 73, wherein the processing unit is configured to subtract at least one reference image from the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 74, wherein the processing unit is configured to detect edges in the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 75, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply an edge detection mask to the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 76, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply Sobel filter to the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 77, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply Sobel filter to the image data from the two optical channels to create first and second gradient images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 78, wherein the processing unit is configured to normalize the first and second gradient images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 79, wherein the processing unit is configured to cross-correlate the first and second gradient images to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 80, wherein the window is embedded in the housing or is in an opening in the housing.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 81, wherein the IR imaging system is configured to compensate for effects of attenuation due to the window being obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 82, wherein said IR imaging system is configured to perform spectral analysis on images to detect target species and is configured to compensate for effects of attenuation due to the window being obscured on said spectral analysis.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 1 to 83, wherein said IR imaging system is configured to perform spectral analysis on images to detect target species and is configured to deemphasize one or more frames of infrared image data from the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels in the determination of the presence of a target species.
An example of an infrared (IR) imaging system for imaging a target species in a scene, the IR imaging system comprising:
The IR imaging system of Example 85, wherein the first and second camera system comprise first and second optical channels that are spatially and spectrally distinct.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 86, wherein said processing unit is configured to provide a window obscuration alert after determining that the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 87, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive the window obscuration alert and, in response, to adjust the infrared image data from the first camera system in compensation for the obscuration of the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 88, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive the window obscuration alert and, in response, to disable analysis of the infrared image data from the first camera system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 89, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive the window obscuration alert and, in response, deemphasize one or more frames of infrared image data from the first camera system in the determination of the presence of a target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 90, wherein the IR imaging system is configured to compensate for effects of attenuation due to the window being obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 91, wherein said IR imaging system is configured to perform spectral analysis on images to detect target species and is configured to compensate for effects of attenuation due to the window being obscured on said spectral analysis.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 92, wherein the processing unit is configured to provide the window obscuration alert to a user.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 93, wherein the IR imaging system further comprises:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 94, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 95, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 96, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 97, wherein the IR imaging system further comprises:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 98, wherein the IR imaging system further comprises:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 99, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate how much of the image data is in focus to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 100, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate the contrast of the image data to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 101, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge enhancement of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 102, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge detection of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 103, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform normalization of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 104, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises scaling the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 105, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises subtracting from the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 106, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate whether image data exceeds a threshold to determine whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 107, wherein analyzing image data from the second camera system comprises:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 108, wherein the processing unit is configured to:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 109, wherein comparing the first and second images comprises comparing the first and second images and using differences between the first and second images caused by parallax to determine whether the optical window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 110, wherein comparing the first and second images comprises performing a correlation of the first and second images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 111, wherein the first and second optical channels are spatially distinct in a given direction and wherein processing unit is configured to:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 112, wherein the processing unit is configured to enhance edges in the image data from the first and second optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 113, wherein the processing unit is configured to subtract at least one reference image from the image data from the first and second optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 114, wherein the processing unit is configured to detect edges in the image data from the first and second optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 115, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply an edge detection mask to the image data from the first and second optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 116, wherein the processing unit containing the processor is configured to determine that the optical window is obscured based on the image data from the second camera system by:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 117, wherein the processing unit containing the processor is configured to determine that the optical window is obscured based on the image data from the second camera system by:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 118, wherein the processing unit containing the processor is configured to determine that the optical window is obscured based on the image data from the second camera system by:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 119, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 120, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 121, wherein transforming the first and second images into respective first and second gradient images comprises applying a Sobel filter to the first and second images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 122, wherein transforming the first and second images into respective first and second gradient images comprises applying a Sobel filter to the first and second images and removing values from the gradient images that fall below a predetermined threshold.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 123, wherein, prior to cross-correlating the first and second gradient images, the processing unit is configured to normalize each of the gradient images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 124, wherein, prior to cross-correlating the first and second gradient images, the processing unit is configured to normalize each of the gradient images by, for each gradient image, subtracting a median value from each gradient image and dividing each gradient image by a standard deviation value.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 125, wherein, prior to cross-correlating the first and second gradient images, the processing unit is configured to normalize each of the gradient images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 126, wherein, prior to transforming the first and second images into respective first and second gradient images, the processing unit is configured to subtract a first reference image from the first image and subtract a second reference image from the second image.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 127, wherein the second camera system is focused within 1 meter of the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 128, wherein the second camera system is focused within 2 meters of the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 129, wherein the second camera system is focused on the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 130, wherein the first camera system is focused at a distance of at least 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 131, wherein the first camera system is focused at a distance of at least 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 132, wherein the first camera system is focused at a distance of at least 25 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 133, wherein the first and second camera systems have respective imaging lenses having respective focal lengths, and the focal length for the first camera is 2 times as large as the focal length for the second camera.
The IR imaging system of any one of Examples 85 to 134, wherein the first and second camera systems have respective imaging lenses having respective focal lengths, and the focal length for the first camera is 5 times as large as the focal length for the second camera.
An example of a method of detecting whether an optical window in an IR imaging system is obscured, the IR imaging system comprising processing circuitry and a plurality of spatially and spectrally distinct optical channels, each optical channel including a set of lenses that focus incident IR light on a respective portion of an optical detector system, the method comprising:
The method of Example 136, wherein the first and second images are in focus at the depth of the optical window.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 137, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises, with the processing circuitry, comparing the first and second images to identify whether the optical window is obscured.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 138, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises, with the processing circuitry, comparing the first and second images and using differences between the first and second images caused by parallax to determine whether the optical window is obscured.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 139, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises evaluating how much of the images are in focus to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 140, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises evaluating the contrast of the images to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 141, further comprising performing edge enhancement.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 142, further comprising performing edge detection.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 143, further comprising normalizing image data.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 144, wherein the normalizing comprises scaling image data.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 145, wherein the normalizing comprises subtracting from image data.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 146, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises performing a correlation of the first and second images.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 147, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises comparing image data from the first and second images at a plurality of offsets along the given direction to detect whether the optical window is obscured.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 148, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises evaluating whether image data exceeds a threshold to determine whether the optical window is obscured.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 149, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises, with the processing circuitry, applying an unsharp mask to the first and second images.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 150, further comprising:
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 151, further comprising:
with the processing circuitry, detecting edges in the first and second images.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 152, further comprising:
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 153, further comprising:
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 154, further comprising:
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 155, further comprising:
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 156, further comprising:
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 157, further comprising detecting a target species based on image data from said plurality of spatially and spectrally distinct optical channels.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 158, further comprising performing spectral analysis to detect said target species.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 159, further comprising adjusting image data from the plurality of optical channels to compensate for effects of attenuation due to the window being obscured.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 160, further comprising de-emphasizing one or more frames of image data from the plurality of optical channels in the determination of the presence of a target species.
The method of any one of Examples 136 to 161, further comprising sending an alert when the window is obscured.
Any of Examples 1 to 162 can include any of the features described above (for example, any of the features in Examples 1 to 162).
Details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described in this disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings and the claims. Note that the relative dimensions of the following figures may not be drawn to scale.
Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements.
The following description is directed to certain implementations for the purposes of describing the innovative aspects of this disclosure. However, a person having ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the teachings herein can be applied in a multitude of different ways. The described implementations may be implemented in any device, apparatus, or system that can be configured to operate as an imaging system such as in an infra-red imaging system. The methods and systems described herein can be included in or associated with a variety of devices such as, but not limited to devices used for visible and infrared spectroscopy, multispectral and hyperspectral imaging devices used in oil and gas exploration, refining, and transportation, agriculture, remote sensing, defense and homeland security, surveillance, astronomy, environmental monitoring, etc. The methods and systems described herein have applications in a variety of fields including but not limited to agriculture, biology, physics, chemistry, defense and homeland security, environment, oil and gas industry, etc. The teachings are not intended to be limited to the implementations depicted solely in the Figures, but instead have wide applicability as will be readily apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art.
The spectral image of the scene can be represented as a three-dimensional data cube where two axes of the cube represent two spatial dimensions of the scene and a third axis of the data cube represents spectral information of the scene in different wavelength regions. The data cube can be processed using mathematical methods to obtain information about the scene. Some of the existing spectral imaging systems generate the data cube by scanning the scene in the spatial domain (e.g., by moving a slit across the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the scene) and/or spectral domain. Such scanning approaches acquire only a portion of the full data cube at a time. These portions of the full data cube are stored and then later processed to generate a full data cube.
Various embodiments disclosed herein describe a divided-aperture infrared spectral imaging (DAISI) system that is structured and adapted to provide identification of target chemical contents of the imaged scene. The system is based on spectrally-resolved imaging and can provide such identification with a single-shot (also referred to as a snapshot) comprising a plurality of images having different wavelength compositions that are obtained generally simultaneously. Without any loss of generality, snapshot refers to a system in which most of the data elements that are collected are continuously viewing the light emitted from the scene. In contrast in scanning systems, at any given time only a minority of data elements are continuously viewing a scene, followed by a different set of data elements, and so on, until the full dataset is collected. Relatively fast operation can be achieved in a snapshot system because it does not need to use spectral or spatial scanning for the acquisition of infrared (IR) spectral signatures of the target chemical contents. Instead, IR detectors (such as, for example, infrared focal plane arrays or FPAs) associated with a plurality of different optical channels having different wavelength profiles can be used to form a spectral cube of imaging data. Although spectral data can be obtained from a single snapshot comprising multiple simultaneously acquired images corresponding to different wavelength ranges, in various embodiments, multiple snap shots may be obtained. In various embodiments, these multiple snapshots can be averaged. Similarly, in certain embodiments multiple snap shots may be obtained and a portion of these can be selected and possibly averaged. Also, in contrast to commonly used IR spectral imaging systems, the DAISI system does not require cooling. Accordingly, it can advantageously use uncooled infrared detectors. For example, in various implementations, the imaging systems disclosed herein do not include detectors configured to be cooled to a temperature below 300 Kelvin. As another example, in various implementations, the imaging systems disclosed herein do not include detectors configured to be cooled to a temperature below 273 Kelvin. As yet another example, in various implementations, the imaging systems disclosed herein do not include detectors configured to be cooled to a temperature below 250 Kelvin. As another example, in various implementations, the imaging systems disclosed herein do not include detectors configured to be cooled to a temperature below 200 Kelvin.
Implementations disclosed herein provide several advantages over existing IR spectral imaging systems, most if not all of which may require FPAs that are highly sensitive and cooled in order to compensate, during the optical detection, for the reduction of the photon flux caused by spectrum-scanning operation. The highly sensitive and cooled FPA systems are expensive and require a great deal of maintenance. Since various embodiments disclosed herein are configured to operate in single-shot acquisition mode without spatial and/or spectral scanning, the instrument can receive photons from a plurality of points (e.g., every point) of the object substantially simultaneously, during the single reading. Accordingly, the embodiments of imaging system described herein can collect a substantially greater amount of optical power from the imaged scene (for example, an order of magnitude more photons) at any given moment in time especially in comparison with spatial and/or spectral scanning systems. Consequently, various embodiments of the imaging systems disclosed herein can be operated using uncooled detectors (for example, FPA unit including an array of microbolometers) that are less sensitive to photons in the IR but are well fit for continuous monitoring applications. For example, in various implementations, the imaging systems disclosed herein do not include detectors configured to be cooled to a temperature below 300 Kelvin. As another example, in various implementations, the imaging systems disclosed herein do not include detectors configured to be cooled to a temperature below 273 Kelvin. As yet another example, in various implementations, the imaging systems disclosed herein do not include detectors configured to be cooled to a temperature below 250 Kelvin. As another example, in various implementations, the imaging systems disclosed herein do not include detectors configured to be cooled to a temperature below 200 Kelvin. Imaging systems including uncooled detectors can be capable of operating in extreme weather conditions, require less power, are capable of operation during day and night, and are less expensive. Some embodiments described herein can also be less susceptible to motion artifacts in comparison with spatially and/or spectrally scanning systems which can cause errors in either the spectral data, spatial data, or both.
In various embodiments disclosed herein, the DAISI system can be mobile. For example, the DAISI system can be configured to be worn or carried by a person, e.g., the DAISI system can be miniaturized to fit in a relatively small housing or compartment. For example, the components of the DAISI system can be sized and shaped to fit within small dimensions and can have a mass sufficiently small to enable the human user to carry or wear the system without undue exertion. As explained herein, in some embodiments, the DAISI system can be sized and shaped to fit within a volume of less than about 300 cubic inches, or in some embodiments, less than about 200 cubic inches. In still other embodiments, the DAISI system can be sized and shaped to fit within a volume less than about 100 cubic inches. For example, in some arrangements, the DAISI system can be sized and shaped to fit within a volume in a range of about 50 cubic inches to about 300 cubic inches. In other arrangements, the DAISI system can be sized and shaped to fit within a volume in a range of about 80 cubic inches to about 200 cubic inches.
Advantageously, such a portable and/or wearable DAISI system can enable the user to monitor installations in remote locations and to detect the presence of various gases (e.g., poisonous gases) in real-time. Further, the portable DAISI system can enable the user to travel to different installations to monitor the presence of gases or chemicals in multiple locations. For example, the user may travel to an oil drilling installation in which oil is pumped from the ground. The user can carry or attach the portable DAISI system to his or her clothing or body (e.g., by way of a clip, hat, etc.) and can activate the system while he or she is on-site. Optical components on board the portable DAISI system can capture one or more snapshot multispectral images of portions of the installation susceptible to gas or chemical leaks. Computing units on board the portable DAISI system can process the captured multispectral image data to detect and/or classify gases or chemicals present at the site. A communications module can notify the user of the detected gases. For example, in various embodiments, the communications module can send a notification to a user interface (such as a set of computing eyeglasses, a mobile computing device such as a mobile smartphone, a tablet computing device, a laptop computing device, or any other suitable interface), and the user interface can display information about the detected gases to the user in real-time, e.g., at the oil drilling installation.
An aperture of the system 100 associated with the front objective lens system 124 is spatially and spectrally divided by the combination of the array of optical filters 130 and the array of reimaging lenses 128. In various embodiments, the combination of the array of optical filters 130 and the array of reimaging lenses 128 can be considered to form a spectrally divided pupil that is disposed forward of the optical detector array 136. The spatial and spectral division of the aperture into distinct aperture portions forms a plurality of optical channels 120 along which light propagates. In various embodiments, the array 128 of re-imaging lenses 128a and the array of spectral filters 130 which respectively correspond to the distinct optical channels 120. The plurality of optical channels 120 can be spatially and/or spectrally distinct. The plurality of optical channels 120 can be formed in the object space and/or image space. In one implementation, the distinct channels 120 may include optical channels that are separated angularly in space. The array of spectral filters 130 may additionally include a filter-holding aperture mask (comprising, for example, IR light-blocking materials such as ceramic, metal, or plastic). Light from the object 110 (for example a cloud of gas), the optical properties of which in the IR are described by a unique absorption, reflection and/or emission spectrum, is received by the aperture of the system 100. This light propagates through each of the plurality of optical channels 120 and is further imaged onto the optical detector array 136. In various implementations, the detector array 136 can include at least one FPA. In various embodiments, each of the re-imaging lenses 128a can be spatially aligned with a respectively-corresponding spectral region. In the illustrated implementation, each filter element from the array of spectral filters 130 corresponds to a different spectral region. Each re-imaging lens 128a and the corresponding filter element of the array of spectral filter 130 can coincide with (or form) a portion of the divided aperture and therefore with respectively-corresponding spatial channel 120. Accordingly, in various embodiment an imaging lens 128a and a corresponding spectral filter can be disposed in the optical path of one of the plurality of optical channels 120. Radiation from the object 110 propagating through each of the plurality of optical channels 120 travels along the optical path of each re-imaging lens 128a and the corresponding filter element of the array of spectral filter 130 and is incident on the detector array (e.g., FPA component) 136 to form a single image (e.g., sub-image) of the object 110. The image formed by the detector array 136 generally includes a plurality of sub-images formed by each of the optical channels 120. Each of the plurality of sub-images can provide different spatial and spectral information of the object 110. The different spatial information results from some parallax because of the different spatial locations of the smaller apertures of the divided aperture. In various embodiments, adjacent sub-images can be characterized by close or substantially equal spectral signatures. The detector array (e.g., FPA component) 136 is further operably connected with a processor 150 (not shown). The processor 150 can be programmed to aggregate the data acquired with the system 100 into a spectral data cube. The data cube represents, in spatial (x, y) and spectral (λ) coordinates, an overall spectral image of the object 110 within the spectral region defined by the combination of the filter elements in the array of spectral filters 130. Additionally, in various embodiments, the processor or processing electronics 150 may be programmed to determine the unique absorption characteristic of the object 110. Also, the processor/processing electronics 150 can, alternatively or in addition, map the overall image data cube into a cube of data representing, for example, spatial distribution of concentrations, c, of targeted chemical components within the field of view associated with the object 110.
Various implementations of the embodiment 100 can include an optional moveable temperature-controlled reference source 160 including, for example, a shutter system comprising one or more reference shutters maintained at different temperatures. The reference source 160 can include a heater, a cooler or a temperature-controlled element configured to maintain the reference source 160 at a desired temperature. For example, in various implementations, the embodiment 100 can include two reference shutters maintained at different temperatures. The reference source 160 is removably and, in one implementation, periodically inserted into an optical path of light traversing the system 100 from the object 110 to the detector array (e.g., FPA component) 136 along at least one of the channels 120. The removable reference source 160 thus can block such optical path. Moreover, this reference source 160 can provide a reference IR spectrum to recalibrate various components including the detector array 136 of the system 100 in real time. The configuration of the moveable reference source 160 is further discussed below.
In the embodiment 100, the front objective lens system 124 is shown to include a single front objective lens positioned to establish a common field-of-view (FOV) for the reimaging lenses 128a and to define an aperture stop for the whole system. In this specific case, the aperture stop substantially spatially coincides with and/or is about the same size as or slightly larger than the plurality of smaller limiting apertures corresponding to different optical channels 120. As a result, the positions for spectral filters of the different optical channels 120 coincide with the position of the aperture stop of the whole system, which in this example is shown as a surface between the lens system 124 and the array 128 of the reimaging lenses 128a. In various implementations, the lens system 124 can be an objective lens 124. However, the objective lens 124 is optional and various embodiments of the system 100 need not include the objective lens 124. In various embodiments, the objective lens 124 can slightly shift the images obtained by the different detectors in the array 136 spatially along a direction perpendicular to optical axis of the lens 124, thus the functionality of the system 100 is not necessarily compromised when the objective lens 124 is not included. Generally, however, the field apertures corresponding to different optical channels may be located in the same or different planes. These field apertures may be defined by the aperture of the reimaging lens 128a and/or filters in the divided aperture 130 in certain implementations. In one implementation, the field apertures corresponding to different optical channels can be located in different planes and the different planes can be optical conjugates of one another. Similarly, while all of the filter elements in the array of spectral filters 130 of the embodiment 100 are shown to lie in one plane, generally different filter elements of the array of spectral filter 130 can be disposed in different planes. For example, different filter elements of the array of spectral filters 130 can be disposed in different planes that are optically conjugate to one another. However, in other embodiments, the different filter elements can be disposed in non-conjugate planes.
In contrast to the embodiment 100, the front objective lens 124 need not be a single optical element, but instead can include a plurality of lenses 224 as shown in an embodiment 200 of the DAISI imaging system in
In one implementation, the front objective lens system such as the array of lenses 224 is configured as an array of lenses integrated or molded in association with a monolithic substrate. Such an arrangement can reduce the costs and complexity otherwise accompanying the optical adjustment of individual lenses within the system. An individual lens 224 can optionally include a lens with varying magnification. As one example, a pair of thin and large diameter Alvarez plates can be used in at least a portion of the front objective lens system. Without any loss of generality, the Alvarez plates can produce a change in focal length when translated orthogonally with respect to the optical beam.
In further reference to
The DAISI systems disclosed herein can be configured to be installed at a suitable location on a long-term basis, according to some embodiments. For example, the DAISI systems disclosed in Section II above can be affixed to a fixture mounted to the ground at a location to continuously or periodically monitor the presence of gases or chemicals at the location. In some embodiments, for example, the DAISI systems can be attached to a pole, post, or any suitable fixture at the location to be monitored. In such arrangements, the DAISI system can continuously or periodically capture multispectral, multiplexed image data of the scene, and an on-board or remote computing unit can process the captured image data to identify or characterize gases or chemicals at the location. A communications module can communicate data relating to the identified gases or chemicals to any suitable external system, such as a central computing server, etc. For such long-term installations of the DAISI system, the installation site may include a power source (e.g., electrical transmission lines connected to a junction box at the site) and network communications equipment (e.g., network wiring, routers, etc.) to provide network communication between the DAISI system and the external systems.
It can be advantageous to provide a mobile DAISI system configured to be worn or carried by a user. For example, it may be unsuitable or undesirable to install a DAISI system at some locations on a long-term basis. As an example, some oil well sites may not have sufficient infrastructure, such as power sources or network communication equipment, to support the DAISI system. In addition, it can be challenging to move the DAISI system from site to site to monitor different locations. For example, installing and removing the DAISI system from a site for transport may involve substantial effort and time for the user when the system is connected to infrastructure at the site to be monitored. Accordingly, it can be desirable to provide a DAISI system that can be used independently of the facilities or infrastructure at the site to be monitored. Furthermore, it can be advantageous to implement the DAISI system in a form factor and with a weight that can be carried or worn by a user. For example, a mobile DAISI system can enable the user to easily transport the system from site-to-site, while monitoring the presence of gases or chemicals in real-time.
It should be appreciated that each of the systems disclosed herein can be used to monitor potential gas leaks in any suitable installation site, including, without limitation, drilling rigs, refineries, pipelines, transportations systems, ships or other vessels (such as off-shore oil rigs, trains, tanker trucks, petro-chemical plants, chemical plants, etc. In addition, each of the embodiments and aspects disclosed and illustrated herein such as above, e.g., with respect to
As explained herein, a gas cloud 1202 emitted from a structure at the site can be imaged by pointing the system 1000 towards the gas cloud 1202 and capturing an image of the gas cloud 1202 when the cloud 1202 is within the FOV of the system 1000. Unlike other systems, the system 1000 can capture multispectral image data of a single scene over a range of IR wavelengths with a single snapshot, as explained in further detail herein. The single snapshot can be captured in a short timeframe, e.g., less than about 3 seconds, less than about 2 seconds, or less than about 1.5 seconds (for example, in about 1 second, in some embodiments). The single snapshot can be captured in greater than about 5 milliseconds, greater than about 0.2 seconds, or greater than about 0.5 seconds. The captured image data can be processed on board the system 1000 by a processing unit, as explained in further detail herein. For example, the processing unit can process the image data from the different optical channels and can compare the captured spectral information with a database of known chemicals to identify and/or characterize the gases that are included in the gas cloud 1202.
A communications module on board the system 1000 can transmit information relating to the identified gases or chemicals to any suitable external device. For example, the communications module can wirelessly communicate (e.g., by Bluetooth, WiFi, etc.) the information to a suitable mobile computing device, such as an electronic eyewear apparatus 1201, a tablet computing device 1212, a mobile smartphone, a laptop or notebook computer 1203, or any other suitable mobile computing device. In some embodiments, if a gas cloud is detected, the system 1000 can warn the user by way of sending a signal to the mobile device (e.g., tablet computing device 1212 or a mobile smartphone. The mobile device can emit an audible ring and/or can vibrate to notify the user of a potential gas leak. In the embodiment of
The processing unit can configure the processed image data such that the types of identified gases are displayed to the user 1275 on the display of the eyewear apparatus 1201. For example, in some embodiments, color-coded data may represent different types of gases or concentrations of a particular gas, and may be overlaid on a visible light image of the scene. For example, the color-coded data and image of the gas cloud can be seen by the user on the electronic eyewear apparatus 1201. In various embodiments, text data and statistics about the composition of the gas cloud 1202 may also be displayed to the user 1275. Thus, the user 1275 can walk the site and can view the different types of gases in the gas cloud 1202 substantially in real-time. Advantageously, such real-time display of the composition of the gas cloud 1202 can enable the user 1275 to quickly report urgent events, such as the leakage of a toxic gas or chemical. In some embodiments, detection of a toxic leak can trigger an alarm, which may cause emergency personnel to help evacuate the site and/or fix the leak.
In some embodiments, the processed image data can be transmitted from the system 1000 to the tablet computing device 1212, laptop computer 1203, and/or smartphone. The user 1275 can interact with the table computing device 1212 or laptop computer 1203 to conduct additional analysis of the imaged and processed gas cloud 1202. Furthermore, information about the gas cloud (including the processed data and/or the raw image data) may also be transmitted to a central server for centralized collection, processing, and analysis. In various arrangements, a global positioning system (GPS) module can also be installed on board the system 1000 and/or on the mobile computing device (such as a tablet computing device, smartphone, etc.). The GPS module can identify the coordinates of the user 1275 when a particular image is captured. The location data for the captured image data can be stored on the central server for further analysis.
Thus, the system 1000 shown in
Unlike other systems, in which the system components are bulky or are assembled over a large form factor, the mobile system 1000 can be sized and shaped in such a manner so as to be easily moved and manipulated when the user 1275 moves about the site. Indeed, it can be very challenging to integrate the various system components in a small form-factor. Advantageously, the systems 1000 can be worn or carried by a human user. For example, the components of the system 1000 can be contained together in a data acquisition and processing module 1020, which may include a housing to support the system components. The components of the system 1000 (including the optical or imaging components, the focal plane array, the on-board processing electronics, and the communications components) may be packaged or assembled in the data acquisition and processing module 1020 and may occupy a volume less than about 300 cubic inches, less than about 200 cubic inches, or less than about 100 cubic inches. In various embodiments, the components of the system 1000 (including the optical or imaging components, the focal plane array, the on-board processing electronics, and the communications components) may be packaged or assembled in the data acquisition and processing module 1020 and may occupy a volume greater than about 2 cubic inches, or greater than about 16 cubic inches.
The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (with the system components mounted therein or thereon) may be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary having dimensions X×Y×Z. For example, the data acquisition and processing module 1020, including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics, may be included in a package that is sized and shaped to fit within the box-shaped boundary having dimensions X×Y×Z. This package may also contain a power supply, such as a battery and/or solar module. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary smaller than 8 inches×6 inches×6 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary smaller than 7 inches×5 inches×5 inches, e.g., a box-shaped boundary small than 7 inches×3 inches×3 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary smaller than 6 inches×4 inches×4 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary smaller than 2 inches×2 inches×6 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary having dimensions larger than 4 inches×2 inches×2 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary having dimensions larger than 3 inches×3 inches×7 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary having dimensions larger than 2 inches×1 inches×1 inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have dimensions less than 2 inches×2 inches×6 inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have dimensions greater than 1 inches×1 inches×3 inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have dimensions greater than 2 inches×2 inches×4 inches. said data acquisition and processing module has dimensions less than 6 inches×3 inches×3 inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have dimensions less than 4 inches×3 inches×3 inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have dimensions less than 3 inches×2 inches×2 inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have dimensions greater than 2 inches×1 inches×1 inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have dimensions greater than 1 inches×0.5 inch×0.5 inch. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have a volume less than 30 cubic inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have a volume less than 20 cubic inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have a volume less than 15 cubic inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have a volume less than 10 cubic inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have a volume more than 1 cubic inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have a volume more than 4 cubic inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have a volume more 5 cubic inches. The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can have a volume more 10 cubic inches. This package may also contain a power supply, including a battery and/or solar module, a communications module, or both and fit into the above-referenced dimensions. It should be appreciated that the dimensions disclosed herein may not correspond to the directions shown in
Moreover, the system 1000 can have a mass and weight sufficiently small so as to enable the user 1275 to easily carry or wear the data acquisition and processing module 1020 at the site. Thus, the embodiment shown in
For example, the central server can track the real-time locations of each imaging system 1000A-1000D based on the GPS coordinates of the particular system or on pre-determined knowledge about the system's stationary location. The distributed nature of the imaging systems 1000A-1000D can provide rich information to the central server about the types and locations of gas leaks or other problems throughout multiple installation sites. Although
The systems 1000 shown in
A DAISI system such as system 1000 may, if desired, be coupled to a unit that adjusts the pan, tilt, rotation, height, or other position of the system 1000. As an example, system 1000 may be mounted to a pan and tilt unit. The pan and tilt unit may be able to rotate the front of system 1000 left and right (e.g., yaw system 1000 left and right) and able to rotate the front of system 1000 up and down (e.g., pitch system 1000 up and down), thereby enabling system 1000 to focus on a particular portion of the surrounding environment and, when desired, to scan different areas of the surrounding environment (i.e., to move through a desired scan path). The pan and tilt unit (or any other unit that adjusts the position of system 1000 may include motors, actuators, or other suitable mechanisms to drive movements of system 1000. The operation of a pan and tilt unit (or any other unit that adjusts the position of system 1000) may be controlled by system 1000, by the pan and tilt unit, by a remote system, by a control system capable of controlling one or more systems 1000 and/or corresponding pan and tilt units, or by any suitable and desired control system.
The stationary infrared imaging system 1000A can be programmed to continuously or periodically monitor the site. If a gas cloud 1302 escapes from the storage tank 1301, such as by leaking from a broken valve, then the system 1000A can capture a multispectral, snapshot image or series of images (e.g., a video stream) of the gas cloud 1302. As with the embodiment of
The imaging systems 1000B worn or carried by the multiple users 1275 can advantageously capture and process multispectral image data of the portions of the installation site that each user 1275 visits. It should be appreciated that the different users 1275 may work in or travel through different portions of the installation site (and also to a number of installation sites) over a period of time. When activated, the imaging systems 1000B worn or carried by the users 1275 can continuously or periodically capture multispectral image data of the different locations at the installation site(s) to which the user 1275 travels. As explained herein, the system 1000B can transmit the image data and the location at which the image was captured to the central server. If the system 1000B or the central server detects a problem (such as a gas leak), then the central server can associate that leak with a particular location and time.
Furthermore, because the central server can receive image data and location data from multiple users at different locations and viewing from different perspectives, the central server can create an organization-wide mapping of gas leaks that include, e.g., the locations of gas leaks in any of multiple installation sites, the type and concentrations and expanse or extent of each gas leaked, the particular user 1275 that captured the image data, and the time at which the image was taken. Thus, each user 1275 that carries or wears a portable imaging system 1000B can contribute information to the central server that, when aggregated by the central server, provides rich details on the status of any gas leaks at any installation sites across the organization.
The truck-mounted imaging system 1000C can be mounted to a truck or other type of vehicle (such as a car, van, all-terrain vehicle, etc.). As shown in
Thus, the systems 1000A-1000D can provide extensive data regarding the existence of leaks at numerous installations across an organization. Monitoring numerous cameras simultaneously or concurrently across an organization, site, region, or the entire country can be enabled at least in part by providing wireless (or wired) communication between the systems 1000A-1000D and one or more central servers. Advantageously, the collection of image data from multiple sources and multiple platforms can enable the organization to create a real-time mapping of potential gas leaks, the types and amounts of gases being leaks, the locations of the leaks, and the time the image data of the leak was captured. In some arrangements, the aggregation of data about a site can improve the safety of installation sites. For example, if a gas leak is detected at a particular installation, the embodiments disclosed herein can alert the appropriate personnel, who can begin safety and/or evacuation procedures. Moreover, the aggregation of data across an organization (such as an oil service company) can provide site-wide, region-wide, and/or company-wide metrics for performance. For example, a given facility can monitor its total emissions over time and use the resulting data to help determine the facility's overall performance. A given region (such as a metropolitan area, a state, etc.) can monitor trends in emissions over time, providing a value on which to base decisions. Likewise, a company can look at the emissions performance at all of its facilities and can make decisions about whether some facilities should make new investments to improve performance, and/or whether the entire company should make various improvements. The mobile systems 1000 disclosed herein can thus provide a ubiquitous monitoring system for decision making. In addition, the systems 1000 disclosed herein can be used in a feedback control process to improve various manufacturing procedures based on the gases detected by the system(s) 1000. Accordingly, a control module may be provided to adjust the manufacturing procedure and/or parameters according to the gases measured by the system 1000.
The embodiments of the mobile infrared imaging system 1000 disclosed herein provide various advantages over other systems. As explained above, aggregation of data about a site and its potential gas leaks can provide an organization- or system-wide mapping of potential problems. Furthermore, automatic detection of gas leaks (and identification of the gases in the gas cloud) can simplify operation of the system 1000 and can reduce the risk of user errors in attempting to detect or identify gas clouds manually. Moreover, the small size of the systems 1000 disclosed herein are more easily carried or worn by the user than other systems. In addition, the systems 1000 disclosed herein can overlay the identified gas clouds on a visible image of the scene and can color code the gas cloud according to, e.g., type of gas, concentration, etc.
The system 1000 can include an optical system 1015 configured to capture multispectral image data in a single snapshot, as explained herein. For example, the optical system 1015 can include an optical focal plane array (FPA) unit and components that define at least two optical channels that are spatially and spectrally different from one another. The two optical channels can be positioned to transfer IR radiation incident on the optical system towards the optical FPA. The multiple channels can be used to multiplex different spectral images of the same scene and to image the different spectral images on the FPA unit.
The processing unit 1021 can also be provided on board the data acquisition and processing module 1020. The processing unit 1021 can include a processor 1023 and a memory 1022. The processor 1023 can be in operable cooperation with the memory 1022, which can contain a computer-readable code that, when loaded onto the processor 1023, enables the processor 1023 to acquire multispectral optical data representing a target species of gas or chemical from IR radiation received at the optical FPA unit of the optical system 1015. The memory 1022 can be any suitable type of memory (such as a non-transitory computer-readable medium) that stores data captured by the optical system 1015 and/or processed by the processing unit 1021. The memory 1022 can also store the software that is executed on the processor 1023. The processor 1023 can be configured to execute software instructions that process the multispectral image data captured by the optical system 1015. For example, the processor 1023 can analyze the different images detected by the FPA and can compare the captured data with known signatures of various types of gases or chemicals. Based on the analysis of the captured image data, the processor can be programmed to determine the types and concentrations of gases in a gas cloud. Further, as explained herein, the processor 1023 can analyze calibration data provided by the optical system 1015 to improve the accuracy of the measurements.
Advantageously, the processor 1023 can comprise one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA) configured to execute methods used in the analysis of the images captured by the optical system 1015. For example, the FPGA can include logic gates and read access memory (RAM) blocks that are designed to quickly implement the computations used to detect the types of gases in a gas cloud. The small size/weight, and high performance characteristics of the FPGA can enable on board computation and analysis within the data acquisition and detection unit 1020 worn or carried by the user. The use of FPGA (or similar electronics) on board the system 1000 can reduce costs associated with using an off-site central server or larger computing device to conduct the image analysis computations. In addition, enabling computation with one or more FPGA devices on board the wearable system can also prevent or reduce communication bottlenecks associated with wirelessly transmitting large amounts of raw data from the system 1000 to a remote server or computer, which can be used in some embodiments.
The communication module 1024 can be configured to communicate with at least one device physically separate from the data acquisition and processing module 1020. For example, the communication module 1024 can include a wireless communication module configured to wirelessly communicate with the at least one separate device. The wireless communication module can be configured to provide wireless communication over wireless networks (e.g., WiFi internet networks, Bluetooth networks, etc.) and/or over telecommunications networks (e.g., 3G networks, 4G networks, etc.).
In some embodiments, for example, the wireless communication module can provide data communication between the data acquisition and processing module 1020 and a mobile device such as an electronic eyewear apparatus, a tablet computing device, a mobile smartphone, a laptop or notebook computer, or any other suitable mobile computing device. As explained herein, the mobile device can include a display on which the processed image data can be displayed to the user. For example, the types (and/or concentrations) of gases in a gas cloud can be illustrated on the display, e.g., by color coding or other suitable illustration scheme. The processed data can overlie a visible image of the scene in some arrangements. In some embodiments, the wireless communication module can provide data communication between the system 1000 and an external device remote from the system 1000, such as a central server. For example, the processed image data and/or the raw image data may be transmitted over a telecommunications network to the central server for storage and/or further analysis. In some embodiments, the processed or raw image data can be uploaded to the mobile device (e.g., notebook computer, smartphone, tablet computing device, etc.), which can in turn communicate the image data to the central server.
The GPS module 1025 can be configured to determine the location of the data acquisition and processing module 1020 at a particular time. The processing unit 1021 can store the location data and can associate the location data with a particular image captured by the optical system 1015 in some arrangements. The location data associated with the captured images can be transmitted by the communication module 1024 (or by an external device) to a central server in some arrangements.
The optical system 1015, the processing unit 1021, the power supply 1026, the communication module 1024, and/or the GPS module 1025 may be contained or housed in the data acquisition and processing module 1020, which can be carried or worn by the user. The components of the system 1000 (including the optical components, the processing components, and the communications components) may be packaged or assembled in the data acquisition and processing module 1020 and may occupy a volume less than about 300 cubic inches, less than about 200 cubic inches, or less than about 100 cubic inches. In various embodiments, the components of the system 1000 (including the optical components, the processing components, and the communications components) may be packaged or assembled in the data acquisition and processing module 1020 and may occupy a volume greater than about 2 cubic inches, or greater than about 16 cubic inches. A power supply, including a battery and/or solar module may also be included among the components packaged or assembled in the data acquisition and processing module 1020 and fit into the above-referenced volumetric dimensions.
The data acquisition and processing module 1020 (with the system components mounted therein or thereon, including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) may be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary having dimensions X×Y×Z. For example, in some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary smaller than 8 inches×6 inches×6 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary smaller than 7 inches×5 inches×5 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary smaller than 6 inches×4 inches×4 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary having dimensions larger than 4 inches by 2 inches×2 inches. In some embodiments, the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be sized and shaped to fit within a box-shaped boundary having dimensions larger than 2 inches by 1 inches×1 inches. A power supply, including a battery and/or solar module, a communications module, or both may be included in the data acquisition and processing module 1020 and fit into the above-referenced dimensions. It should be appreciated that the dimensions disclosed herein may not correspond to the directions shown in
Additional examples of mobile divided-aperture infrared spectral imaging (DAISI) systems are provided in this section. For example, the systems 1000 shown in
As with the above-referenced embodiments, the systems 1000 of
A. System Overview
As shown in
The data acquisition and processing unit 1020 can be configured to be worn or carried by a person. The combination of components described herein can advantageously enable the optical components and processing electronics to fit within a small form factor sufficient to be worn or carried by a person. For example, the data acquisition and processing unit 1020 can have dimensions and a weight (or mass) selected so as to be easily worn or carried by a human user to any suitable location, e.g., for conducting infrared imaging and monitoring of potential gas leaks at a petroleum installation. As shown in
The length X can be in a range of 3 inches to 8 inches, in a range of 3.5 inches to 6 inches, in a range of 4 inches to 6 inches, or in a range of 5 inches to 6 inches. The height Y can be in a range of 1 inch to 5 inches, in a range of 1 inch to 3 inches, in a range of 1.5 inches to 2.5 inches, or in a range of 2 inches to 2.5 inches. The width Z can be in a range of 1 inch to 5 inches, in a range of 1 inch to 3 inches, in a range of 1 inch to 2.5 inches, or in a range of 1 inch to 2 inches. For example, the width Z can be in a range of 1.25 inches to 2 inches, in a range of 1.5 inches to 2 inches, or in a range of 1.6 inches to 1.9 inches.
The weight of the data acquisition and processing unit 1020 can be in a range of 0.5 pounds to 5 pounds, in a range of 0.5 pounds to 3 pounds, in a range of 0.75 pounds to 2.5 pounds, in a range of 1 pound to 2.5 pounds, in a range of 1 pound to 2 pounds, or in a range of 1.25 pounds to 1.75 pounds.
One or more batteries 1588 can supply power to the system 1000 by way of the substrate(s) 1586. In addition, a visible light imaging sensor 1580 can be disposed in the housing 1590 and can be configured to provide a visible light image of the scene being captured by the system 1000. The processed IR image data can be overlaid upon the visible light image. In various embodiments the visible light imaging sensor 1580 can be used for reduction of scene-motion-induced detection errors, for example, to detect a moving object that enters the field of view (such as an animal or person) and would interfere with the data being collected.
As explained herein, the movable shutter(s) 1503 can be configured to provide spectral-radiometric calibration for the system 1000. The shutter(s) 1503 can be configured to move in and out of the field of view of the lens assembly 1502 periodically, e.g., in a time period in a range of about 1 minute to about 15 minutes, or more particularly, in a range of about 3 minutes to about 7 minutes, e.g., about 5 minutes. Although one shutter 1503 is illustrated in
The lens assembly 1502 can include a first lens array 1502A and a second lens array 1502B. In some embodiments, the lens assembly 1502 can comprise an array of two-part lenses denoted by the first and second arrays 1502A, 1502B. In some embodiments, the lens assembly 1502 can comprise an array of two separate lenses denoted by the first and second arrays 1502A, 1502B. Each of the lens arrays 1502A, 1502B can comprise a 4×3 array of lenses, each of which may correspond to a particular detector region in the FPA unit 1508 and can define an optical channel of the system 1000. The lenses used in the first lens array 1502A may be different from the lenses used in the second lens array 1502B. The lenses can be any suitable type of lens, including, e.g., spherical lenses, aspheric lenses, rod lenses, etc. or any combination thereof. For example, the lenses used in the first lens array 1502A can comprise aspheric lenses, and the lenses used in the second lens array 1502B can comprise rod lenses. Although the lens assembly 1502 shown in
The first lens array 1502A and the second lens array 1502B can be coupled to one another by way of a mounting plate 1584 sized and shaped to support or receive each lens array 1502A, 1502B. For example, the first lens array 1502A can be mounted on one side of the mounting plate 1584, and the second lens array 1502B can be mounted on an opposite side of the mounting plate 1584. The mounting plate 1584 can be machined to have diameter tolerances of about +/−25 microns. The lenses of the arrays 1502A, 1502B can be secured to the mounting plate 1584 with a curable epoxy. For example, the lenses may fit into opposite sides of holes formed in the mounting plate 1584.
The optical FPA unit 1508 can comprise any suitable type of detector array that is configured to detect infrared radiation, for example, greater than 1 micron, or greater than 2 microns, or greater than 3 microns or greater than 5 microns, or greater than 6 microns and possibly lower than 20 microns, or 15 microns, or 13 microns, or 12 microns or 10 microns, in wavelength, and may be cooled or uncooled. In some embodiments the optical FPA unit 1508 comprises one or more microbolometer arrays, which may be uncooled. For example, an array of about 1000×1000 microbolometer arrays may be used in the embodiments disclosed herein. Microbolometer arrays such as those manufactured by DRS Technologies of Arlington, Va., and Sofradir EC, Inc., of Fairfield, N.J., may be suitable for the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the DRS U8000 FPA manufactured by DRS Technologies may be used in some embodiments. In some arrangements, the microbolometer array may have a resolution of 1024×768 with a pixel pitch of 12 microns. The array of lenses can form separate channels having image detection regions that form part of the array. For example, 12 channels can be included in the 1024×768 pixel array on the detector array (microbolometer array) that are for example 250×250 pixels for each of the 12 channels. Detector arrays having more or less pixels may be employed. Similarly the number of channels be larger or smaller than 12 and the detection area on the detector array for a single channel may be larger or smaller than 250×250 pixels. For example, the detection region may comprise from between 100-200 pixels×100-200 pixels per detection region. For example, the detection region may comprise from between 100-200 pixels×100-200 pixels per detection region, from between 200-300 pixels×200-300 pixels per detection region, or from between 300-400 pixels×300-400 pixels or from between 400-500 pixels×400-500 pixels. Likewise the detection region for a channel may measure 100-200 pixels on a side, 200-300 pixels on a side, 300-400 pixels on a side, 400-500 pixels on side or larger or smaller.
In some arrangements, the spectral band of the microbolometer can be about 7.5 microns to 14 microns or can be about 3 microns to 14 microns or 3 to 8 microns. The microbolometer array can operate at a frame rate of about 30 Hz and can operate at operating temperatures of about −40° C. to +70° C. In various embodiments, the microbolometer array is an uncooled microbolometer that does not include a cooler. The sensitivity of the microbolometer at F/1 can be <about 40 mK. The systems 1000 disclosed herein can be used to detect wavelengths in a range of about 1 micron to about 20 microns. For example, the systems 1000 disclosed herein can be used to detect wavelengths above about 6 microns, e.g., in a range of about 6 microns to about 18 microns, in a range of about 3 microns to about 14 microns, or more particularly, in a range of about 7 microns to about 14 microns or 3 to 8 microns. In various embodiments, the individual detector elements of the microbolometer array can be spaced relatively close together to at least partially enable a small, compact system. For example, adjacent detector elements of the array can be spaced apart by a distance in a range of about 7 microns to about 15 microns, or more particularly in a range of about 9 microns to about 13 microns, e.g., about 11 microns. The individual lenses can be spaced apart by a distance in a range of about 20 mm to about 35 mm, e.g. in a range of about 24 mm to about 30 mm, e.g., about 27.5 mm. Likewise the spatially and spectrally spaced channels may be physically spaced apart by 20 to 35 mm, 24 mm to 30 mm, etc. Although various embodiments of the system are described as including an FPA comprising for example a microbolometer array, certain embodiments comprise a plurality of FPAs. In some embodiments, a single optical FPA is used. In some embodiments, detectors of the optical FPA are configured to detect radiation in the same band of IR wavelengths.
The on-board processing electronics of the data acquisition and processing module 1020 can process the IR optical data to detect and/or identify a target species from the IR radiation received at the optical FPA. For example, the module 1020 can be configured to acquire multispectral image data and analyze the acquired image data to identify the target species. For example, the mobile imaging systems 1000 disclosed herein can be configured to image a 10 m×10 m object area at a distance of about 17 m at a resolution of about 0.04 m. In this example, any gas leaks that generate a gas cloud of at least about 1.5 inches in size can be detected and/or identified by the system 1000. The detection and identification methods can be performed substantially in real-time such that the user can be alerted if any leaks are identified.
As explained above, the infrared image data captured by the system 1000 can be processed on board the data acquisition and processing module 1020 of the imaging system 1000. One way to provide a smaller system 1000 is to process the image data using one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA) configured to execute methods used in the analysis of the images captured by the optical system 1015. In some embodiments, one or more Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) may be used instead of, or in addition to, the FPGAs. For example, an ASICs chip may include a FPGA. The FPGA(s) (and/or ASIC(s)) can be mounted to and electrically coupled with the substrate(s) 1586 shown in
In addition, enabling computation with one or more FPGA devices on board the wearable system can also prevent or reduce communication bottlenecks associated with wirelessly transmitting large amounts of raw data from the system 1000 to a remote server or computer. For example, the infrared optical system 1015 disclosed herein may generate up to about 380 Mbps of raw image data at 30 frames per second, and the visible sensor 1580 may generate about 425 Mbps of raw image data at 30 frames per second. The resulting data rate of about 800 Mbps is faster than most conventional wireless technologies. While data compression and/or pre-processing may reduce the raw data rates for the visible and IR images, in some embodiments, the IR image data may only be compressed by a ratio of about 2:1. The resulting overall data rate of about 192 Mbps may not be transmitted effectively by conventional wireless communications devices. Accordingly, performing the image processing calculations on board the system 1000 (e.g., on the data acquisition and processing module 1020) can reduce the occurrence of or avoid bottlenecks generated by wirelessly communicating the raw image data to an off-site central server.
One challenge to implementing a mobile imaging system is the power requirements of each component of the system, including, e.g., the IR optical system 1015, the visible sensor 1580, the processing electronics, the wireless communications modules, etc. Advantageously, the mobile infrared imaging systems 1000 disclosed herein can be configured to operate by battery power for long periods of time without recharging or replacing the batteries 1588. In some arrangements the one or more batteries 1588 can comprise lithium ion batteries, which have relatively high energy densities. In addition, to help reduce power consumption within the system 1000, the FPGAs of the data acquisition and processing module 1020 can be advantageously programmed such that power consumption is lower than that used for other types of processing electronics.
The systems 1000 disclosed herein can advantageously operate for between 8 hours and 36 hours without recharging or replacing the batteries, or more particularly between about 10 hours and 24 hours without recharging or replacing the batteries. In some embodiments, the system 1000 can operate for at least about 12 hours without recharging or replacing the batteries. The components of the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can be configured to operate at relatively low electrical power levels, e.g., at power levels in a range of about 3 W to about 10 W, or more particularly in a range of about 4 W to about 7 W, or in a range of about 4 W to about 6 W, e.g., about 5 W in some embodiments. The components of the data acquisition and processing module 1020 (including the imaging optics, focal plane array, and on board processing electronics may) can also be configured to operate at relatively low overall energy levels for a single charge of the batteries 1588, e.g., at energy levels in a range of about 60 Watt-hours (Wh) to about 100 Wh, or more particularly in a range of about 80 Wh to about 95 Wh, or in a range of about 85 Wh to about 90 Wh.
In addition, for each of the embodiments disclosed herein, various motion detection and/or compensation techniques can be implemented to account for relatively large-scale motions that are induced by the user moving his or her head during use. For example, when a user is visiting a well site or other installation, the user may be continuously walking and looking in different directions (e.g., by rotating his or her head). Additionally, vibration can be introduced by the user's natural unsteadiness. Such movement can continuously change the system's field of view at a relatively rapid rate, which can affect the accuracy of the methods used to determine the identity of species in a gas cloud or other object. Accordingly, it can be desirable to provide improved motion detection and/or compensation techniques to reduce errors associated with the movements of the user.
The DAISI systems disclosed herein may include one or more window obscuration sensors that help reduce false detection of target species. In particular, if there is water, dirt, grime, dust, bugs or other foreign contaminants on the DAISI system's optical window (e.g., optical window 1606 of
The system may also be susceptible to false positives when objects are sufficiently near the optical window (i.e., when there are objects in a near-field region). The distances at which the system is susceptible to false positives may depend at least in part on the optical properties of the imaging system and its lenses. For objects at larger distances (i.e., objects in a far-field region), the system may be able to accurately identify whether or not those objects at further distances are one of the target species. The near-field region in which the imaging system may be susceptible to false positives may include distances of less than 2 meters, less than 1 meter, less than 50 centimeters, etc.
Beneficially, the systems 1000 disclosed herein can provide one or more window obscuration sensors that can detect when the optical window is obscured (e.g., sensors that can detect objects on or in front of the window that may introduce obscuration that may degrade operation of the system) by contaminants on the window or objects are located within the near-field region and thus the system can reduce or eliminate false alarms and false detections of target species.
A. Dual-Channel Window Obscuration Sensors
As shown in
The systems 1000 disclosed herein can include dual-channel window obscuration sensors (WOS), as shown in
The dual-channel WOS may include channels 850a and 850b associated with filters 820 and 830. Filters 820 and 830 may be any type of filter or may even be omitted from the filter array 800. As another example, filters 820 and 830 may pass a broad spectrum of incoming light, such as visible light or broad ranges of infrared light including wavelengths in which the focal plan array is sensitive. In some arrangements, filters 820 and 830 may pass infrared light in a spectral band from about 3 microns to about 14 microns, from about 7.5 microns to about 14 microns, from about 3 microns to about 8 microns, etc.
In at least some designs, dual-channel window obscuration sensors may be associated with optical channels such as channels 850a and 850b disposed in the center two channels of an array of channels, as illustrated in
A schematic diagram of the array 800 of optical filters is shown in
1. Lens Focal Lengths for Window Obscuration Sensors
In order for the WOS sensors to focus on the optical window 1506 and the near-field region just in front of the optical window 1506 (i.e., the region in which systems 1000 are susceptible to false detections), lenses for the WOS sensors should be provided with an appropriate focal length. As such, the distances between the optical window 1506, lens assembly 1502, and optical FPA unit 1508 together with the focal length of the lens assembly 1502 should be considered.
Apply a thin lens approximately (i.e., setting aside the depth of lens assembly 1502 and assuming lens assembly 1502 included a single layer of thin lenses), the thin lens approximation can be used to determine what focal length is needed for a WOS sensor to receive light from the entire optical window 1506 (and thus be able to detect when a bug or other contaminant is on any part of the window 1506). The thin lens indicates that the focal length of a WOS channel is:
F=(1/x+1/y){circumflex over ( )}−1
wherein x is the distance from the lens assembly 1502 to the optical window 1506 and y is the distance from the lens assembly 1502 to the optical FPA 1508. Given a distance x (i.e., separation 2010) of approximately 26 millimeters and a distance y (i.e., separation 2020) of approximately 2.4 millimeters, the lenses in lens assembly 1502 associated with WOS sensor should preferably have a focal length of approximately 2.2 millimeters. Depending on the depth of the field of the lenses, slightly longer or shorter focal lengths may be utilized. In particular, it may be desirable to provides lenses having a depth of field that include the depth of the optical window 1508 as well distances in front of the optical window 1508 in regions in which the systems 1000 are susceptible to false detections due to objects in the near-region. In at least some designs, the systems 1000 may be susceptible to false detections when certain objects are within approximately a few tens of centimeters, less than 20 centimeters, or less than 50 centimeters of optical window 1506
In at least some designs, the lenses associated with WOS channels 850a and 850b (see
As examples, the depth of field of the WOS channels 850a and 850b (e.g., the region in which objects imaged by channels 850a and 850b are generally in focus) may extend from the optical window to approximately 1 meter away from the optical window, from the optical window to approximately 50 cm away from the optical window, from the optical window to approximately 20 cm away from the optical window, from the optical window to approximately 10 cm away from the optical window. In various designs, the f-number may be between f/10 or f/8 or f/5 or f/2 or f/1 and f/1 or f/0.9 or f/0.8 or f/0.7, or any f-number in any range defined by any of these values. Also, in various designs, the lenses in the channels 850a and 850b may have a focal length less than the lenses in other channels. For example, the focal length in other channels may be 2 or 5 times larger than the focal length in WOS channels 850a and 850b.
2. Dual-Channel WOS Algorithms
In at least some designs, the systems 1000 may analyze image data from WOS channels and detect objects that may otherwise lead to false alarms using an algorithm of the type described herein. A method 1002 of analyzing WOS image data to detect whether optical window 1506 is obscured is shown in
In step 1004, window obscuration sensors may image optical window 1506 and the area in front of optical window 1506 (i.e., the near field region in front of optical window 1506). Processing circuitry may receive and analyze those images in the manner set forth in
In optional step 1006, an unsharp mask algorithm may be applied to the WOS images, to sharpen the WOS images. An unsharp mask involves using a blurred negative image to create a mask that is combined with the original image to create an image that is less blurry. An unsharp mask generally amplifies the high-frequency components of an image. Alternatives to unsharp masks include edge amplification, high-pass filters, derivative-based filtering, edge enhancement, an image sharpening mask, a contrast filter, contrast amplification, contrast enhancement, etc.
In optional step 1008, a temporal difference algorithm may be applied to the WOS images. The temporal difference algorithm may subtract out from the WOS images a reference image (or an average of multiple reference images, reference images may be prior images captured by an optical channel) or plurality of reference images from each WOS image. Each reference image may be an image frame captured by the WOS sensors at a time when it is known or presumed there are no objects on or near window 1506. In fixed installations, subtracting out a relatively fixed background, in the manner of step 1008, can facilitate detection of new objects that appear on or near optical window 1506. In general, subtracting out a reference image or images may highlight movement in the image by removing static and other slow moving objects.
In step 1010, processing circuitry may identify edges in the WOS images. As an example, a Sobel filter may be applied to the WOS images to create an image of the gradients (i.e., edges) in the WOS images. Additionally, a threshold operation may be applied to remove any gradients that are lower than a given threshold, leaving only large gradients (i.e., sharp edges). Because only objects that are in focus of the WOS sensors will have sharp edges, steps 1006-1010 have the effect of filtering out distance objects. In particular, distance objects will be out of focus in each WOS image, will therefore lack sharp edges, and will get filtered out by a Sobel filter with a threshold. Alternatives to Sobel filters include edge detection masks, edge detection algorithms, a Canny edge detector, a differential approach to edge detection, a phase stretch transform (PST), contrast enhancement, contrast measurement, etc.
In step 1012, the gradient images from step 1010 may be normalized and cross-correlated. In some cases, each gradient image may be normalized by subtracting the mean pixel value across the image from every pixel value and then by dividing each pixel by the standard deviation of pixel values. Cross-correlation may look at the similarity between the two gradient images, by combining the two gradient images with a logical AND operation. Any portions of the gradient images that both indicate edges (for a given horizontal offset) will multiply and yield a result, while portions that don't both indicate edges will include a multiplication by zero or a small value and yield no value or only a negligible value. Alternatives normalization and cross-correlation include comparing the gradient images, comparing any of the images received or generated in a prior step, comparison without normalization, comparison of the gradient or other images at a variety of offsets, comparison of the original images, etc.
As the WOS sensor includes a pair of divided channels spaced apart horizontally, the cross-correlation for a variety of horizontal pixel offsets may be of interest. As result, step 1012 may involve calculating cross-correlations for a variety of horizontal pixel offsets. Put another way, the similarity of the gradient images may be calculated when the gradient images are registered (i.e., aligned) as well as calculated for a variety of horizontal offsets in which one gradient image is horizontally offset from the other. Since objects that are close to or on the optical window will be in different positions in the two WOS images (and then the two gradient images), the cross-correlation is likely to peak not when the WOS images are aligned, but when the WOS images are offset by an amount that accounts for the parallax differences between the WOS images. Thus, it may be desirable to calculate the cross-correlation for the gradient images across a range of horizontal offsets.
Because the sensors are viewing objects on or near the optical window, the images of the objects will appear at different locations in each of the images, because the sensors are at different perspectives. Thus, step 1012 may involve comparing images from the two WOS channels 850a and 850b. The comparison may show that image features on a first image from the first WOS channel 850a are offset with respect to corresponding image features on the second image from the second WOS channel 850b. This offset may result from parallax. The two sensors for the respective first and second WOS channels 850a, 850b, view objects on or near the window from two perspectives. The different perspectives result in images of the objects (in the near-field region) appearing at different location on the two respective WOS sensors. This difference or offset in location is larger for objects closer to the sensors such as objects on the window in comparison to objects at a far distance from the window. Accordingly, by detecting the offset, whether the objects are on or near the window as opposed to being distant from the window may be determined. In some implementations, the images may be processed, e.g., compared, after introducing a variety of different offsets or shifts of the images with respect to each other. By comparing these images (and the associated image features) at a variety of different offsets, the method can figure out how much the objects in the two images are offset, and possibly determine if there are any objects within the region of interest (e.g., on or near the optical window). Additionally, the method can potentially identify the distance at which the object is located and/or account for the parallax differences.
In at least some examples, WOS channels 850a and 850b may have focal distances similar to those of the optical channels used in detection of target species. In such examples, the window obscuration sensor system may utilize parallax-induced differences in the images from the WOS channels 850a and 850b to identify whether or not objects are located within the near-field region (e.g., on or near the optical window 1506). The WOS system may also utilize parallax-induced differences even when the WOS channels 850a and 850b have significantly shorter focal distances (e.g., are focused on or near the optical window) than the optical channels used in detection of target species.
While the examples described herein generally provide WOS channels that are spaced apart horizontally and aligned vertically, this is merely one potential arrangement. In general, the WOS channels may alternatively be spaced apart vertically and aligned horizontally, or even spaced apart both vertically and horizontally (e.g., in a diagonal manner). The various examples described herein apply to such arrangements, with corresponding differences (e.g., cross-correlations would be calculated for vertical or diagonal offsets instead of just horizontal offsets).
In step 1014, various conditions may be applied to reduce false positive WOS alerts. In other words, the processing circuitry analyze various conditions to determine whether to issue a WOS alert (i.e., an alert indicating that there is water on optical window 1506, or some other contaminant on or near the optical window, which could interfere with proper detection of a target species). One such condition may be that there must be at least a predetermined number of “bad” pixels, or pixels in the gradient images that exceed the threshold discussed in connection with step 1010. In other words, the condition may involve determining that there are at least a predetermined number of sharp edges in the gradient images, such sharp edges being associated with water or other objects on or near the optical window. As an example, this condition may require there be at least 25 “bad” pixels in the gradient images. The number of “bad” pixels needed to trigger a WOS alert may be configurable by a user. In general, a higher required number of “bad” pixels will make the WOS alarm less sensitive to water or other objects on or near the optical window.
Another potential condition that may need to be satisfied to trigger a WOS alert is a cross correlation value above a predetermined threshold. In one example, the predetermined threshold is a value of at least 0.4. In other words, the two gradient images must be sufficiently alike that when logically AND'd together in their most correlated horizontal alignment, the cross correlation value is at least 0.4 The cross correlation value required to trigger a WOS alert may be user configurable. In general, a higher cross correlation value will make the WOS alarm less sensitive to water or other objects on or near the optical window.
As will be discussed in greater detail in connection with
A third potential condition may be that the cross correlation value of 0.4 must occur within an offset of 30 pixels. In other words, cross correlation of step 1012 may only be calculated (or may only be used in triggering a WOS alert) for offsets that are within 30 pixels (in either horizontal direction) of the original alignment of the two gradient images. Alternatively, step 1012 may involve a comparison of any of the images described in connection with
This may serve to limit the processing load of the WOS algorithm while still identifying relevant objects in or near the optical window. The offset limit for cross correlations that trigger a WOS alert may be user configurable.
3. Examples of WOS Sensing in Various Conditions
The descriptions of
When a WOS alert is provided by the DAISI systems, the DAISI systems may forward the alert to a user, so that the user can remove the object potentially interfering with accurate measurement or detection (e.g., clean the optical window), and may also temporarily disable detection of target species (e.g., to avoid false alerts caused by the objects detected by the WOS sensor). Alternatively, the DAISI system may continue detection of target species when the WOS channels 850a and 850b detect objects in the near-field region (e.g., within approximately 1 meter of the system or within approximately 20 centimeters or the system). In some examples, the DAISI system may use data from WOS channels 850a and 850b to compensate for the presence of objects in the near-field region that would otherwise impact detection of target species and may thereby enable continued operate and accurate detection of target species. As an example, the DAISI system may use data from WOS channels 850a and 850b to determine which IR channels are obscured and by how much those channels are obscured, and then may alter its analysis of IR image data from those channels to compensation for the obscuration (e.g., the DAISI systems may boost IR image signals from obscured channels to compensate for the obscuration).
a. A Fishing Lure at 2 Centimeters
Image 11a of
Image 11b may be a version of image 11a after applying an optional temporal mask (e.g., subtracting out of reference frame as in step 1008 of
Image 11e of
Images 11c and 11d are equivalent versions of images 11a and 11b, respectively, but corresponding to a second WOS channel such as optical channel 7 of
As shown in images 11e and 11f, a large number of pixels (as indicated in banner 11i approximately 685 “bad pixels”) have a gradient value above the predetermined threshold. These pixels may be referred to herein as bad pixels and may be associated with objects that are in-focus, and thereby known to be within the region of interest for the WOS system.
Graph 11g of
As shown in graph 11g, the fishing lure at 2 cm example may have a peak cross-correlation value of approximately 0.6 (e.g., a peak value of 0.613 at a positive shift of 8 pixels).
As part of step 1014, the WOS system may determine that the peak cross-correlation value within box 11h (see graph 11g) exceeds the predetermined threshold and that the number of “bad” pixels exceeds the predetermined threshold. As a result, the WOS system may issue a WOS alert, as indicated by box 11i, in the example of
b. A Fishing Lure at 20 Centimeters
Image 12a of
Image 12b may be a version of image 12a after applying an optional temporal mask (e.g., subtracting out of reference frame as in step 1008 of
Image 12e of
Images 12c and 12d are equivalent versions of images 12a and 12b, respectively, but corresponding to a second WOS channel such as optical channel 7 of
As shown in images 12e and 12f, a large number of pixels (indicated in banner 12i) have a gradient value above the predetermined threshold (e.g., 34 “bad pixels” as indicated in banner 12i). These pixels may be referred to herein as bad pixels and may be associated with objects that are in-focus, and thereby known to be within the region of interest for the WOS system.
Graph 12g of
As shown in graph 12g, the fishing lure at 20 cm example may have a peak cross-correlation value of approximately 0.6 (e.g., a peak of 0.629 at a shift of +28 pixels). Moreover, in comparison to graph 11g of
As part of step 1014, the WOS system may determine that the peak cross-correlation value within box 12h (see graph 12g) exceeds the predetermined threshold and that the number of “bad” pixels exceeds the predetermined threshold. As a result, the WOS system may issue a WOS alert, as indicated by box 12i, in the example of
c. A Fishing Lure at 50 Centimeters
Image 13a of
Image 13b may be a version of image 13a after applying an optional temporal mask (e.g., subtracting out of reference frame as in step 1008 of
Image 13e of
Images 13c and 13d are equivalent versions of images 13a and 13b, respectively, but corresponding to a second WOS channel such as optical channel 7 of
As shown in images 13e and 13f, very few if any pixels (indicated in banner 13i) have a gradient value above the predetermined threshold (e.g., 0 “bad pixels” as indicated in banner 13i). In particular, there are very few, if any, edges that are sufficiently sharp in images 13e and 13f. Thus, the system can conclude that there are no objects within the region of interest near or on the optical window. As such, the WOW system may determine that no WOS alert is needed based on the lack of such edges (e.g., the lack of “bad” pixels in the gradient images). Nonetheless, the system may continue with WOS processing including calculation of cross-correlation values.
Graph 13g of
As shown in graph 13g, the fishing lure at 50 cm example may have a peak cross-correlation value of approximately 0.2 (e.g., a peak of 0.149 at a zero offset). As such, the cross-correlation value may not exceed the predetermined threshold indicated by box 13h and the system may decide not to provide a WOS alert.
d. A Tennis Racket at 2 Centimeters
Image 14a of
Image 14b may be a version of image 14a after applying an optional temporal mask (e.g., subtracting out of reference frame as in step 1008 of
Image 14e of
Images 14c and 14d are equivalent versions of images 14a and 14b, respectively, but corresponding to a second WOS channel such as optical channel 7 of
As shown in images 14e and 14f, a large number of pixels (indicated in banner 14i) have a gradient value above the predetermined threshold (e.g., 53 “bad pixels” as shown in banner 14i). These pixels may be referred to herein as bad pixels and may be associated with objects that are in-focus, and thereby known to be within the region of interest for the WOS system.
Graph 14g of
As shown in graph 14g, the tennis racket at 2 cm example may have a peak cross-correlation value of approximately 0.5 (e.g., a peak of 0.474 at a pixel shift of +28). Additionally, given the repeating pattern of the strings of the tennis racket, the gradient images have multiple cross-correlation peaks as shown in graph 14. Nonetheless, the system may still trigger a WOS alert.
As part of step 1014, the WOS system may determine that the peak cross-correlation value within box 14h (see graph 14g) exceeds the predetermined threshold and that the number of “bad” pixels exceeds the predetermined threshold. As a result, the WOS system may issue a WOS alert, as indicated by box 14i, in the example of
e. A Moving Object at 2 Meters
Image 15a of
Image 15b may be a version of image 15a after applying an optional temporal mask (e.g., subtracting out of reference frame as in step 1008 of
Image 15e of
Images 15c and 15d are equivalent versions of images 15a and 15b, respectively, but corresponding to a second WOS channel such as optical channel 7 of
As shown in images 15e and 15f, few if any of the pixels (also indicated in banner 15i) have a gradient value above the predetermined threshold (e.g., 0 “bad pixels”). In particular, since the moving object is relatively far away from the optical window, the moving object is not in sharp focus and can't provide sharp edges. As such, the WOS system may decide not to issue a WOS alert, as there are insufficient sharp edges present in the gradient images.
Graph 15g of
As shown in graph 15g, the moving object at 2 m example may have a peak cross-correlation value of approximately 0.1 (e.g., a peak of 0.070 at a pixel shift of +29). This peak may be less than needed to satisfy the conditions applied in step 1015. As such, the WOS system may determine that the peak cross-correlation value within box 15h (see graph 15g) does not exceed the predetermined threshold. As a result, the WOS system may decide not to issue a WOS alert, as indicated by box 15i, in the example of
f. Water Droplets on the Optical Window
Image 16a of
Image 16b may be a version of image 16a after applying an optional temporal mask (e.g., subtracting out of reference frame as in step 1008 of
Image 16e of
Images 16c and 16d are equivalent versions of images 16a and 16b, respectively, but corresponding to a second WOS channel such as optical channel 7 of
As shown in images 16e and 16f, a large number of pixels (indicated in banner 16i) have a gradient value above the predetermined threshold (e.g., 3B bad pixels). These pixels may be referred to herein as bad pixels and may be associated with objects that are in-focus, and thereby known to be within the region of interest for the WOS system.
Graph 16g of
As shown in graph 16g, the example with water droplets on the optical window may have a peak cross-correlation value of approximately 0.7 (e.g., a peak of 0.700 at a pixel offset of −3).
As part of step 1014, the WOS system may determine that the peak cross-correlation value within box 16h (see graph 16g) exceeds the predetermined threshold and that the number of “bad” pixels exceeds the predetermined threshold. As a result, the WOS system may issue a WOS alert, as indicated by box 16i, in the example of
g. A Second Example of Water Droplets on the Optical Window
Image 17a of
Image 17b may be a version of image 17a after applying an optional temporal mask (e.g., subtracting out of reference frame as in step 1008 of
Image 17e of
Images 17c and 17d are equivalent versions of images 17a and 17b, respectively, but corresponding to a second WOS channel such as optical channel 7 of
As shown in images 17e and 17f, a sufficient number of pixels (indicated in banner 17i) have a gradient value above the predetermined threshold to trigger a WOS alarm (e.g., 27 “bad pixels” as shown in banner 17i).
Graph 17g of
As shown in graph 17g, the second example with water droplets on the optical window may have a peak cross-correlation value of approximately 0.6 (e.g., a peak of 0.573 at a shift of −1 pixels), again sufficient to trigger a WOS alarm.
As part of step 1014, the WOS system may determine that the peak cross-correlation value within box 17h (see graph 17g) exceeds the predetermined threshold and that the number of “bad” pixels exceeds the predetermined threshold. As a result, the WOS system may issue a WOS alert, as indicated by box 17i, in the example of
h. Water Droplets on the Optical Window with a Fishing Lure at 50 Centimeters
As shown in images 18a and 18b, the water droplets are clear and in focus, while the moving fishing lure is difficult to discern. Images 18b and 18d highlight the water droplets and the fishing lure. In particular, the fishing lure may be visible between columns 100 and 150 in image 18b and visible between columns 160 and 210 in image 18b. The sharp edges of the water droplets and the soft edges of the fishing lure are similarly visible in images 18e and 18f. Additionally, the cross-correlation values shown in graph 18g are relatively similar to those shown in graph 16g of
i. Water Droplets on the Optical Window with a Moving Tennis Racket at 1 Meter
As shown in images 19a and 19b, the water droplets are clear and in focus, while the tennis racket is difficult to discern. Images 19b and 19d highlight the water droplets and the tennis racket. In particular, the tennis racket may be visible between columns 50 and 100 in image 19b and visible between columns 150 and 200 in image 19b. The sharp edges of the water droplets are similarly visible in images 19e and 19f, while the soft edges of the tennis racket at a distance of 1 meter may fall below the edge threshold and not appear in images 19e and 19f. Additionally, the cross-correlation values shown in graph 19g are relatively similar to those shown in graph 16g of
j. Water Droplets on the Optical Window with a Moving Object at 2 Meter
As shown in images 20a and 20b, the water droplets are clear and in focus, while the moving object is difficult to discern. Images 20b and 20d highlight the water droplets and illuminate the positions of the moving object (the dark spot in images 20b and 20d). The sharp edges of the water droplets are similarly visible in images 20e and 20f, while the soft edges of the object at a distance of 2 meter may fall mostly below the edge threshold and not appear in images 20e and 20f. Additionally, the cross-correlation values shown in graph 20g are relatively similar to those shown in graph 16g of
k. A Gas Release at 5 Centimeters
Image 21a of
Image 21b may be a version of image 21a after applying an optional temporal mask (e.g., subtracting out of reference frame as in step 1008 of
Image 21e of
Images 21c and 21d are equivalent versions of images 21a and 21b, respectively, but corresponding to a second WOS channel such as optical channel 7 of
As shown in images 21e and 21f, a moderate number of pixels (e.g., 70 “bad pixels” as shown in banner 21i) have a gradient value above the predetermined threshold and the cross-correlation values may be relatively high (e.g., have values as high as 0.408 at a 0 pixel shift as shown in banner 21i). The number of such pixels and the cross-correlation values may be large enough to satisfy a WOS alert condition.
Graph 21g of
However, it may be desirable not to issue a WOS alert for situations similar to the gas release example of
As shown in
Thus, the modification of the WOS system described in connection with
B. Additional Aspects and Variations of WOS Systems
1. Single-Channel Window Obscuration Sensors
In at least some designs, the systems 1000 disclosed herein can include a single channel window obscuration sensor, that detects objects on the optical window 1506 (
In such designs, the system may proceed under the method of
2. Lens Aperture Sizing for Window Obscuration Sensors
In at least some designs, it may be beneficial to provide lenses, for any channel(s) used in a WOS system, having a suitable lens aperture sizing. As an example, it may be desirable for the lenses (from lens assembly 1502 of
In some designs, it may be desirable to provide a lens, for each WOS channel, having an f number between 3.0 and 1.0, between 2.0 and 1.0, between 1.375 and 1.0, between 1.0 and 0.875, between 1.0 and 0.7 or any combination of these ranges. The f number can be any value in any range defined by any of these values.
In at least some arrangements, dual-channel WOS systems may be less sensitive to the size of the lens apertures in the WOS system. In particular, dual-channel WOS systems may be able to utilize parallax effects to exclude distant objects, even if those objects are in focus due to a higher f number lens and an associated larger depth of field.
Various examples of imaging systems comprising an optical window and with capabilities to determine if the optical window is obscured (e.g., to detect objects on or in front of the window that may introduce obscuration that may degrade operation of the system) are described herein such as the additional examples enumerated below:
An Additional Example of an infrared (IR) imaging system comprising:
The IR imaging system of Additional Example 1, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 2, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 3, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 30 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 4, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 5, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 6, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 30 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 7, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 5 meters greater than the focus distance of the first optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 8, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 10 meters greater than the focus distance of the first optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 9, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 20 meters greater than the focus distance of the first optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 10, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance of 1 meter or less.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 11, wherein the first optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance of 2 meter or less.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 12, wherein the first optical channel and the other optical channels include imaging lenses for imaging objects onto the optical detector system, said imaging lenses having focal lengths.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 13, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the first optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 14, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the first optical channel by at least 2×.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 15, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the first optical channel by at least 5×.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 16, wherein the first optical channel is in focus at the optical window to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 17, wherein the first optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the first optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 1 meter beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 18, wherein the first optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the first optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 50 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 19, wherein the first optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the first optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 20 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 20, wherein the first optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the first optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 10 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 21, further comprising:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 22, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate how much of the image data is in focus to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 23, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate the contrast of the image data to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 24, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge enhancement of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 25, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge detection of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 26, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform normalization of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 27, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises scaling the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 28, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises subtracting from the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 29, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate whether image data exceeds a threshold to determine whether obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 30, wherein a second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance that is closer to the optical window than at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of Additional Example 31, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 32, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 33, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus less than 2 meters and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 30 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 34, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 35, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 36, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus of 1 meter or less and other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have a focus of greater than 30 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 37, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 5 meters greater than the focus distance of the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 38, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 10 meters greater than the focus distance of the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 39, wherein at least some of the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels have focus distances at least 20 meters greater than the focus distance of the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 40, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance of 1 meter or less.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 41, wherein the second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels has a focus distance of 2 meter or less.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 42, wherein the second optical channel and the other optical channels include imaging lenses for imaging objects onto the optical detector system, said imaging lenses having focal lengths.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 43, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 44, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the second optical channel by at least 2×.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 45, wherein the focal lengths for lenses in the other optical channels exceed the focal length for the second optical channel by at least 5×.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 46, wherein a second optical channel out of the plurality of optical channels is in focus at the optical window to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 47, wherein the second optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the second optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 1 meter beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 48, wherein the second optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the second optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 50 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 49, wherein the second optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the second optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 20 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 50, wherein the second optical channel has a depth of field over which the optical channel is substantially in focus and wherein the depth of field of the second optical channel extends between a depth of the optical window and approximately 10 cm beyond the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 51, wherein the processing unit is configured to process image data from the second optical channel to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 52, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate how much of the image data from the second optical channel is in focus to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 53, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate the contrast of the image data from the second optical channel to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 54, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge enhancement of the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 55, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge detection of the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 56, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform normalization of the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 57, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises scaling the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 58, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises subtracting from the image data from the second optical channel.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 59, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate whether image data from the second optical channel exceeds a threshold to determine whether obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 60, wherein a plurality of the optical channels are in focus at optical infinity to detect a target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 61, wherein a plurality of the optical channels are in focus at a distance of at least 10 meters to detect a target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 62, wherein a plurality of the optical channels are in focus at a distance of at least 20 meters to detect a target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 63, wherein the processing unit is further configured to process image data from the plurality of optical channels to detect the target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 64, wherein the optical detector system comprises a plurality of optical detectors, each of which is associated with a respective one of the optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 65, wherein the optical detector system comprises at least one optical detector having a plurality of regions, each of the regions being associated with a respective one of the optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 66, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 67, wherein the processing unit is configured to:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 68, wherein comparing the first and second images comprises comparing the first and second images and using differences between the first and second images caused by parallax to determine whether obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 69, wherein comparing the first and second images comprises performing a correlation of the first and second images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 70, wherein the first and second optical channels are spatially distinct in a given direction and wherein processing unit is configured to:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 71, wherein the processing unit is configured to enhance edges in the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 72, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply an unsharp mask to the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 73, wherein the processing unit is configured to subtract at least one reference image from the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 74, wherein the processing unit is configured to detect edges in the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 75, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply an edge detection mask to the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 76, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply a Sobel filter to the image data from the two optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 77, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply a Sobel filter to the image data from the two optical channels to create first and second gradient images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 78, wherein the processing unit is configured to normalize the first and second gradient images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 79, wherein the processing unit is configured to cross-correlate the first and second gradient images to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 80, wherein the window is embedded in the housing or is in an opening in the housing.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 81, wherein the IR imaging system is configured to compensate for effects of attenuation due to obscuration.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 82, wherein said IR imaging system is configured such that operation of the system includes performing spectral analysis on images to detect target species and wherein said IR imaging system is configured to compensate for effects of attenuation due to obscuration on said spectral analysis.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 83, wherein said IR imaging system is configured such that operation of the system includes performing spectral analysis on images to detect target species and wherein said IR imaging system is configured to deemphasize one or more frames of infrared image data from the other optical channels of the plurality of optical channels in the determination of the presence of a target species.
An Additional Example of an infrared (IR) imaging system for imaging a target species in a scene, the IR imaging system comprising:
The IR imaging system of Additional Example 85, wherein the first and second camera system comprise first and second optical channels that are spatially and spectrally distinct.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 86, wherein said processing unit is configured to provide a window obscuration alert after determining that obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 87, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive the window obscuration alert and, in response, to adjust the infrared image data from the first camera system in compensation for the obscuration.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 88, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive the window obscuration alert and, in response, to disable analysis of the infrared image data from the first camera system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 89, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive the window obscuration alert and, in response, deemphasize one or more frames of infrared image data from the first camera system in the determination of the presence of a target species.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 90, wherein the IR imaging system is configured to compensate for effects of attenuation due to obscuration.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 91, wherein said IR imaging system is configured to perform spectral analysis on images to detect target species and is configured to compensate for effects of attenuation due to the obscuration on said spectral analysis.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 92, wherein the processing unit is configured to provide the window obscuration alert to a user.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 93, wherein the IR imaging system further comprises:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 94, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 95, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 96, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 97, wherein the IR imaging system further comprises:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 98, wherein the IR imaging system further comprises:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 99, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate how much of the image data is in focus to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 100, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate the contrast of the image data to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 101, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge enhancement of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 102, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform edge detection of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 103, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform normalization of the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 104, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises scaling the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 105, wherein the normalization of the image data comprises subtracting from the image data.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 106, wherein the processing unit is configured to evaluate whether image data exceeds a threshold to determine whether obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 107, wherein analyzing image data from the second camera system comprises:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 108, wherein the processing unit is configured to:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 109, wherein comparing the first and second images comprises comparing the first and second images and using differences between the first and second images caused by parallax to determine whether obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 110, wherein comparing the first and second images comprises performing a correlation of the first and second images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 111, wherein the first and second optical channels are spatially distinct in a given direction and wherein processing unit is configured to:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 112, wherein the processing unit is configured to enhance edges in the image data from the first and second optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 113, wherein the processing unit is configured to subtract at least one reference image from the image data from the first and second optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 114, wherein the processing unit is configured to detect edges in the image data from the first and second optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 115, wherein the processing unit is configured to apply an edge detection mask to the image data from the first and second optical channels.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 116, wherein the processing unit containing the processor is configured to determine whether obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system based on the image data from the second camera system by:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 117, wherein the processing unit containing the processor is configured to determine whether obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system based on the image data from the second camera system by:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 118, wherein the processing unit containing the processor is configured to determine whether obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system on the image data from the second camera system by:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 119, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 120, wherein:
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 121, wherein transforming the first and second images into respective first and second gradient images comprises applying a Sobel filter to the first and second images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 122, wherein transforming the first and second images into respective first and second gradient images comprises applying a Sobel filter to the first and second images and removing values from the gradient images that fall below a predetermined threshold.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 123, wherein, prior to cross-correlating the first and second gradient images, the processing unit is configured to normalize each of the gradient images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 124, wherein, prior to cross-correlating the first and second gradient images, the processing unit is configured to normalize each of the gradient images by, for each gradient image, subtracting a median value from each gradient image and dividing each gradient image by a standard deviation value.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 125, wherein, prior to cross-correlating the first and second gradient images, the processing unit is configured to normalize each of the gradient images.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 126, wherein, prior to transforming the first and second images into respective first and second gradient images, the processing unit is configured to subtract a first reference image from the first image and subtract a second reference image from the second image.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 127, wherein the second camera system is focused within 1 meter of the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 128, wherein the second camera system is focused within 2 meters of the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 129, wherein the second camera system is focused on the optical window.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 130, wherein the first camera system is focused at a distance of at least 10 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 131, wherein the first camera system is focused at a distance of at least 20 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 132, wherein the first camera system is focused at a distance of at least 25 meters.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 133, wherein the first and second camera systems have respective imaging lenses having respective focal lengths, and the focal length for the first camera is 2 times as large as the focal length for the second camera.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 85 to 134, wherein the first and second camera systems have respective imaging lenses having respective focal lengths, and the focal length for the first camera is 5 times as large as the focal length for the second camera.
An Additional Example of a method of detecting obscuration of an optical window in an IR imaging system, the IR imaging system comprising processing circuitry and a plurality of spatially and spectrally distinct optical channels, each optical channel including a set of lenses that focus incident IR light on a respective portion of an optical detector system, the method comprising:
The method of Additional Example 136, wherein the first and second images are in focus at the depth of the optical window.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 137, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises, with the processing circuitry, comparing the first and second images to identify obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 138, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises, with the processing circuitry, comparing the first and second images and using differences between the first and second images caused by parallax to determine whether obscuration is present that may degrade operation of the system.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 139, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises evaluating how much of the images are in focus to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 140, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises evaluating the contrast of the images to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 141, further comprising performing edge enhancement.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 142, further comprising performing edge detection.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 143, further comprising normalizing image data.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 144, wherein the normalizing comprises scaling image data.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 145, wherein the normalizing comprises subtracting from image data.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 146, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises performing a correlation of the first and second images.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 147, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises comparing image data from the first and second images at a plurality of offsets along the given direction to detect obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 148, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises evaluating whether image data exceeds a threshold to determine obscuration that may degrade operation of the system.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 149, wherein analyzing the first and second images comprises, with the processing circuitry, applying an unsharp mask to the first and second images.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 150, further comprising:
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 151, further comprising:
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 152, further comprising:
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 153, further comprising:
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 154, further comprising:
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 155, further comprising:
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 156, further comprising:
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 157, wherein operation of the system comprises detecting a target species based on image data from said plurality of spatially and spectrally distinct optical channels.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 158, further comprising performing spectral analysis to detect said target species.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 159, further comprising adjusting image data from the plurality of optical channels to compensate for effects of attenuation due to the window being obscured.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 160, further comprising de-emphasizing one or more frames of image data from the plurality of optical channels in the determination of the presence of a target species.
The method of any one of Additional Examples 136 to 161, further comprising sending an alert when the window is obscured.
The IR imaging system of any one of Additional Examples 1 to 135, wherein said IR imaging system is configured such that operation of the system includes performing spectral analysis on images to detect target species.
Any of Additional Examples 1 to 163 can include any of the features described above (for example, any of the features in Examples 1 to 163).
Each of the embodiments disclosed herein can be used to estimate various characteristics of gases present in a gas leak imaged by the infrared imaging systems disclosed herein.
References throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “a related embodiment,” or similar language mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the referred to “embodiment” is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment. It is to be understood that no portion of disclosure, taken on its own and in possible connection with a figure, is intended to provide a complete description of all features of the invention.
In the drawings like numbers are used to represent the same or similar elements wherever possible. The depicted structural elements are generally not to scale, and certain components are enlarged relative to the other components for purposes of emphasis and understanding. It is to be understood that no single drawing is intended to support a complete description of all features of the invention. In other words, a given drawing is generally descriptive of only some, and generally not all, features of the invention. A given drawing and an associated portion of the disclosure containing a description referencing such drawing do not, generally, contain all elements of a particular view or all features that can be presented is this view, for purposes of simplifying the given drawing and discussion, and to direct the discussion to particular elements that are featured in this drawing. A skilled artisan will recognize that the invention may possibly be practiced without one or more of the specific features, elements, components, structures, details, or characteristics, or with the use of other methods, components, materials, and so forth. Therefore, although a particular detail of an embodiment of the invention may not be necessarily shown in each and every drawing describing such embodiment, the presence of this detail in the drawing may be implied unless the context of the description requires otherwise. In other instances, well known structures, details, materials, or operations may be not shown in a given drawing or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of an embodiment of the invention that are being discussed. Furthermore, the described single features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more further embodiments.
Moreover, if the schematic flow chart diagram is included, it is generally set forth as a logical flow-chart diagram. As such, the depicted order and labeled steps of the logical flow are indicative of one embodiment of the presented method. Other steps and methods may be conceived that are equivalent in function, logic, or effect to one or more steps, or portions thereof, of the illustrated method. Additionally, the format and symbols employed are provided to explain the logical steps of the method and are understood not to limit the scope of the method. Although various arrow types and line types may be employed in the flow-chart diagrams, they are understood not to limit the scope of the corresponding method. Indeed, some arrows or other connectors may be used to indicate only the logical flow of the method. For instance, an arrow may indicate a waiting or monitoring period of unspecified duration between enumerated steps of the depicted method. Without loss of generality, the order in which processing steps or particular methods occur may or may not strictly adhere to the order of the corresponding steps shown.
The features recited in claims appended to this disclosure are intended to be assessed in light of the disclosure as a whole.
At least some elements of a device of the invention can be controlled—and at least some steps of a method of the invention can be effectuated, in operation—with a programmable processor governed by instructions stored in a memory. The memory may be random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory or any other memory, or combination thereof, suitable for storing control software or other instructions and data. Those skilled in the art should also readily appreciate that instructions or programs defining the functions of the present invention may be delivered to a processor in many forms, including, but not limited to, information permanently stored on non-writable storage media (e.g. read-only memory devices within a computer, such as ROM, or devices readable by a computer I/O attachment, such as CD-ROM or DVD disks), information alterably stored on writable storage media (e.g. floppy disks, removable flash memory and hard drives) or information conveyed to a computer through communication media, including wired or wireless computer networks. In addition, while the invention may be embodied in software, the functions necessary to implement the invention may optionally or alternatively be embodied in part or in whole using firmware and/or hardware components, such as combinatorial logic, Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) or other hardware or some combination of hardware, software and/or firmware components.
While examples of embodiments of the system and method of the invention have been discussed in reference to the gas-cloud detection, monitoring, and quantification (including but not limited to greenhouse gases such as Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Nitrogen Oxide as well as hydrocarbon gases such as Methane, Ethane, Propane, n-Butane, iso-Butane, n-Pentane, iso-Pentane, neo-Pentane, Hydrogen Sulfide, Sulfur Hexafluoride, Ammonia, Benzene, p- and m-Xylene, Vinyl chloride, Toluene, Propylene oxide, Propylene, Methanol, Hydrazine, Ethanol, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,1-dichloroethane, Dichlorobenzene, Chlorobenzene, to name just a few), embodiments of the invention can be readily adapted for other chemical detection applications. For example, detection of liquid and solid chemical spills, biological weapons, tracking targets based on their chemical composition, identification of satellites and space debris, ophthalmological imaging, microscopy and cellular imaging, endoscopy, mold detection, fire and flame detection, and pesticide detection are within the scope of the invention.
As used herein, a phrase referring to “at least one of” a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including single members. As an example, “at least one of: a, b, or c” is intended to cover: a, b, c, a-b, a-c, b-c, and a-b-c.
If implemented in software, the functions may be stored on or transmitted over as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. The steps of a method or algorithm disclosed herein may be implemented in a processor-executable software module which may reside on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media and communication media including any medium that can be enabled to transfer a computer program from one place to another. A storage media may be any available media that may be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that may be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that may be accessed by a computer. Also, any connection can be properly termed a computer-readable medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk, and Blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above also may be included within the scope of computer-readable media. Additionally, the operations of a method or algorithm may reside as one or any combination or set of codes and instructions on a machine readable medium and computer-readable medium, which may be incorporated into a computer program product.
Various modifications to the implementations described in this disclosure may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with this disclosure, the principles and the novel features disclosed herein.
Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate implementations also can be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation also can be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.
Mallery, Ryan, Balila, Ohad Israel, Kester, Robert Timothy
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| Executed on | Assignor | Assignee | Conveyance | Frame | Reel | Doc |
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| Jan 26 2018 | KESTER, ROBERT TIMOTHY | REBELLION PHOTONICS, INC | ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 051752 | /0112 | |
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